Florida law requires contractors to be licensed. Hiring an unlicensed contractor is a violation of Florida Statute 455.228 and is subject to a fine of up to $5,000 

Unlicensed contractors can often underbid licensed professionals because they typically are not bonded or insured and do not pay into the residential contractors' recovery fund or pay any unemployment compensation for their worker 

Warning Signs of a Problem Contractor 

• The estimate/contract has a handwritten company name or address 

• The contractor only offers a verbal agreement, not a written contract 

• You’re asked to pay in cash or make checks out to an individual instead of a company 

• A large upfront payment is requested before work begins  

• The contractor’s vehicle has no business name or license number  

• Their business cards or ads don’t list a contractor license number  

• They ask you to pull the permit yourself 

• They only want to work evenings or weekends  

Risks of Hiring an Unlicensed Contractor 

Unlicensed contractors can cost you more in the long run: 

• They may not have insurance, and if someone gets hurt you could be held responsible 

• Their contracts may not be legally enforceable 

• You might have to pay twice if they do not pay their suppliers 

• Suppliers or subcontractors could file a lien against your home  

• Work that isn’t up to code might have to be torn down or redone at your own expense 

• Knowingly hiring an unlicensed contractor could result in a $5000 fine 

Before you hire a contractor: 

•  Get at least 3 written estimates from licensed contractors 

• Ask to see their license, liability, and workers’ comp insurance (and check expiration dates) 

• Make sure they’re registered with Manatee County at MyFloridaLicense.com 

• Read the contract carefully and ensure it clearly describes all work to be done  

• Keep copies of everything: contracts, receipts, checks, and photos of the project 

• Ask for references and check their past work